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Poisoned Watermelon Kills Family in India
15 May
Summary
- Four family members died after eating watermelon.
- Toxic chemical, zinc phosphide, found in victims.
- Investigators explore homicide, suicide, or accident.

A family of four in Mumbai, India, perished after eating watermelon found to contain zinc phosphide, a potent chemical typically used in rat poison. The tragic incident occurred on April 25, with the family falling ill shortly after consuming the fruit. Symptoms included vomiting and diarrhea, and despite being rushed to the hospital, all four family members died.
Investigators have confirmed the presence of zinc phosphide in the victims' organs and in the watermelon samples. The building where the family resided reportedly had a rodent infestation, raising questions about how the poison may have entered the fruit. Police are meticulously collecting evidence and have questioned numerous individuals, including relatives and neighbors.
Authorities are currently investigating multiple scenarios, not ruling out homicide, accidental death, or suicide. The exact method by which the toxic chemical was introduced into the watermelon remains a central mystery for the ongoing investigation.